Beginning in 2007, conversations about the need for a new community centre and improvements to the public park spaces in Rideau Heights involved local residents, neighbourhood organizations, social service providers, and the City of Kingston. These discussions developed strong support for the creation of a community hub which would include improved recreational and community gathering spaces and supporting facilities. A partnership between the City and the Limestone District School Board was created to plan, design, and construct this new social and recreational hub for the community.

The development of the community centre and the renewal of Shannon Park began in May 2015 with the removal of the housing complex at 80 Daly St. and the Wally Elmer Youth Centre.

New improvements to Shannon Park include:

• New playground equipment
• New skate park and multi-sports court
• New community centre
• Improved park entrances
• Extension of MacCauley Street
• Relocated sports fields
• New community gardens

The new community centre & library will be attached to the Rideau Heights Public School and features:

• Seniors/youth space
• Gymnasium
• Multi-purpose room
• Kitchen
• Lounge
• City office space
• Hall
• Specialty rooms
• Library

Project Status

• January 2014 – Public Information Session - Completed
• May 2014 – Public Information Session - Completed
• December 2014 – Public Information Session - Completed
• March 2015 – Continuity Report to Council - Completed
• May 1, 2015 – Last day of programming at Wally Elmer Youth Centre
• September 2015 - Demolition of Wally Elmer Youth Centre & 80 Daly Street - Completed
• Spring 2016 – Skate park construction begins
• Summer 2016 – Redesign of Community Centre & Library complete
• November 2016 – Construction begins
• Winter 2018 - Construction complete